Skip to content
Surprising Science —

Coming Soon To Some Chevrolet Cars: Siri

The company announced today that two of its models will include functionality that will let iPhone owners access the personal assistant using a special “Eyes Free” feature.
Sign up for the Smarter Faster newsletter
A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

What’s the Latest Development?

Soon, iPhone 4S or 5 owners will be able to use the Apple personal digital assistant Siri in Chevrolet Spark and Sonic models available early next year, making General Motors the first major car company to integrate the technology into its vehicles. Siri will be connected to Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system via Bluetooth, and will allow drivers to interact with it via the voice activation button in the steering wheel. Drivers can perform basic tasks, such as making calls and playing songs from iTunes, while in “Eyes Free” mode. They cannot perform more complex tasks, such as opening a Web page.

What’s the Big Idea?

Chevrolet marketing director Cristi Landy says, “Safe, easy, reliable and portable connectivity is a top priority for our customers.” General Motors had confirmed it would support Siri earlier this year, and other car companies, including BMW and Mercedes-Benz, have announced similar plans to integrate the technology into their cars. Building it into the Spark and Sonic, two of its smaller and lower-cost models, before the luxury models indicates Chevrolet’s “commitment to small-car customers,” says Landy. 

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com

Sign up for the Smarter Faster newsletter
A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people
Related
Up Next
The Wisdom of Insecurity
Security is perhaps the most well-known illusion human beings have contrived. From the cursory seduction of emotional stability to the wrathful manifestation of raging armies, the painful longing for complete […]